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Some answers

Welcome to the fold. I think you'll like the way an E46 feels, as it's not altogether different from the feel of an E39 based on my experience. As far as common issues across platforms:

Control Arm bushings - common to all of them
Pixels failing in Inst cluster and MID (head unit) - haven't heard of this as a common problem, not sure
Sunroof lift arms breaking (no tilt, loose sunroof) - haven't heard this mentioned as a problem, not sure
Door vapor seal leaks (water in foot wells) - not so much as E39 if at all
Cooling system longevity (rad, water pump primarily) - yes, similar potential issues

There was a recall on rear subframe cracking, so make sure any potential candidate has been inspected. Mine was checked with no apparent problems. There may be other things that others will mention. And that white one that is linked below appears to be a fine example.
Greg
2005 330Ci ZHP

Thanks

Still up in the air. Problem is there are so few manual transmission cars (albeit not as rare as in E39s). ZHP would be wonderful, but any nice coupe that's been well-cared for (AKA more than "free" maint sched) would be wonderful.

I've driven the E92 and it's an excellent car except for being virtually unmaintainable by the owner.
Crusader